In Search of Lost Magnetic Memories: A Journey into Tokyo’s Cassette Tape Scene
This is CityNomix from Photomo. In my daily hustle chasing numbers and logic in the world of digital marketing, there are moments when I find myself pausing, drawn to something with a tangible warmth. That ‘something’ is the cassette tape. It’s the gentle hiss and warble of magnetic tape, encased in that small plastic shell.
This journey began with an immersion in the world of the fashion brand C.E. The cultural fragments they broadcast resonated with my own memories of making mixtapes, a cherished pastime. My old Walkman was long gone, but I figured if I was going to listen, I should do it with good sound. So, I invested in a “we are rewind,” a French-made cassette player. From that day on, my treasure hunt began. But the vast ocean of the internet proved too wide, making it nearly impossible to find that one special tape. That’s why I decided to walk the streets of Tokyo myself, to experience the music along with the atmosphere of the ‘place’ itself.
This article is a comprehensive guide to the cassette tape and record shops in Tokyo that I’ve personally explored, and a record of my own journey. From the serenity of a specialty store in a quiet residential area, to the vibrant energy of a massive store at a cultural crossroads, to the enduring spirit of a long-standing institution protecting culture in a historic corner of the city. I will honestly share the unique charm of each shop, weaving in my own experiences—including the occasional frustrating tale of a “missed opportunity.” This is more than just a list of stores; it’s a Photomo-style culture journal, inviting you on a journey through musical memories via the time machine known as the cassette tape. So, let’s head out into the city of Tokyo together.
In the Age of Digital, Why Are We Drawn to Cassette Tapes?
In an era where streaming services have fundamentally changed how we listen to music, the question, “Why bother with cassette tapes?” is a perfectly valid one. As a digital marketer, I myself enjoy the convenience of accessing a world of music with a single click and do not doubt its benefits. Yet, why do we find ourselves returning to this inconvenient, somewhat temperamental medium? Through my explorations, I’ve arrived at a few answers.
First and foremost is the value of “the satisfaction of tangible ownership” and “the physical experience.” Music as data floats like a cloud within our devices, but it cannot be touched. A cassette tape, on the other hand, has a satisfying weight. There is joy in poring over the jacket art and deciphering the liner notes. The thrill I felt at “Oddtape” in Shibuya upon discovering a cassette version of Billie Eilish’s *Tiny Desk Concert*—a performance readily available online—was a moment that perfectly encapsulated this desire for physical ownership. Placing the tape in the player, the satisfying ‘clunk’ as it begins to play, watching the spools turn, and flipping it over to Side B with your own hands—this entire ritual creates a dedicated, focused time for engaging with music one-on-one. It’s a mode of interaction that is fundamentally different from the passive ‘consumption’ of music in the background; it is music as an ‘experience.’
Second is the allure of “curation” and “serendipity.” Each store I visited on this journey was a brilliant curator with its own unique philosophy. The owner of “Waltz” in Nakameguro, despite his background in the digital world at Amazon, pens heartfelt “recommendations” for each handpicked tape on Instagram and in-store POPs. This is a warm-blooded endorsement, worlds away from an algorithm’s ‘recommendations for you.’ Similarly, the spirit of curation that once made “Manhattan Records” in Shibuya famous for its MIX CDs lives on in the very arrangement of its shelves and the staff’s advice. Even at massive stores like Tower Records and Disk Union, the local flavor and buyers’ personalities heavily influence the stock, setting the stage for unexpected treasures. The act of ‘crate digging’ with your own feet and hands is a series of unpredictable discoveries, a thrilling adventure that expands your musical universe in unforeseen directions.
Third, there’s “nostalgia and new context.” The soundtracks for *Top Gun* and *Cocktail* that I found at “Waltz” were like time capsules, perfectly preserving the fervor of the 80s. For my generation, they are devices that awaken fond memories. For a younger generation, they are seen as retro, cool symbols of a new culture. In this way, cassette tapes can become a medium for intergenerational communication. The dynamism of an old medium acquiring entirely new context and value by connecting with modern technology and fashion is what makes culture so fascinating.
Finally, we cannot overlook the aspect of “community and knowledge sharing.” Just as a casual chat with a staff member at “Oddtape” led me to a band I’d never heard of, record shops function as community hubs for sharing a love and knowledge of music, not just as points of sale. People with a shared passion gather there, intently browsing the shelves and sometimes exchanging information. This analog connection provides a human warmth that can often feel diluted in our digital society.
Ultimately, we are drawn to cassette tapes because they embody something more than just a music playback medium. They are objects, experiences, discoveries, and tools for communication. It is this multi-layered appeal that drives us on this journey into the world of the little magnetic tape.
The Main Event: A Tour of Tokyo’s Cassette Tape & Record Shops
Now, let me share the records of my journey—walking, shooting, and writing my way through the streets of Tokyo. I want to share with you the unique world of each shop and the real stories I experienced there.
1. waltz (Nakameguro): The Pinnacle of Curation in a Serene Space
The place where my cassette tape quest truly began was “Waltz” in Nakameguro. A short walk from the station on the Tokyu-Toyoko Line, it sits in a quiet residential neighborhood. The storefront, with its minimalist logo on a raw concrete wall, feels more like a contemporary art gallery. It catches the eye of passersby yet exists with a quiet confidence, as if it has always belonged there.
Stepping inside, you enter a sanctuary of cassette tapes. Tapes from all eras and corners of the globe breathe on the shelves, organized yet warm. The minimal, meticulously designed space is filled with a comfortable silence, perfect for losing yourself in music. The BGM, personally selected by the owner and played from a cassette, is always superb, opening new musical doors with every visit.
The soul of Waltz lies in its exceptional selection, curated by the owner’s keen eye. What’s particularly noteworthy is how new arrivals are introduced in tandem with their Instagram. The descriptions are not mere data but heartfelt “recommendations” brimming with a deep love for music. From my perspective as a digital marketer, this strategy is brilliant. More than once, I’ve been moved by these words, only to find the tape sold out by the time I decided I “wanted it!” Live rock and alternative albums are especially popular. In-store, these recommendations are presented as handwritten POPs. Picking up a tape while reading one is an irresistible call to purchase.
On my visit, I acquired several treasures: raw live recordings from the Ramones and Nirvana, classic albums by Mr. BIG and Bruce Springsteen from my student days, and rare, hard-to-find tapes by Frank Ocean and Mac Miller. The used selection is also meticulously organized, and I was even reunited with the *Top Gun* soundtrack I’d been searching for. Waltz is not just a place to ‘buy’ products; it’s a place that offers the experience of ‘encountering’ music. This sensation is the very essence of what Photomo aims to convey.
For a more detailed account of my experience at this location, please read this article:
Rediscovering Sound: My Journey into the World of Cassette Tapes at Waltz, Nakameguro
2. Tower Records Shibuya: A Colossal Music Library at the Crossroads of Culture
If Waltz in Nakameguro is a “select shop” reflecting its owner’s refined taste, then Tower Records Shibuya, an icon of its neighborhood, is a “colossal music library” stocking everything from major label hits to indie gems, new releases to timeless classics. Its selection of cassette tapes, a medium enjoying a significant resurgence, makes it one of the most important hubs in Tokyo. Stepping onto the 6th floor, home to “Tower Vinyl Shibuya,” you’re greeted by new and used cassettes, radiating energy and occupying nearly half the floor space.
The wall of new cassettes is nothing short of breathtaking. The diversity is unparalleled, featuring everything from the latest pop by artists like Taylor Swift, to rock legends like Linkin Park and David Bowie, hip-hop classics like De La Soul, and J-pop masterpieces by Tatsuro Yamashita and Spitz. The act of digging through this overwhelming volume to find your own gem is a treasure hunt in itself.
I arrived on this day with a clear mission: to find a live Rage Against The Machine cassette that had sold out at Waltz. Unfortunately, the cassette was nowhere to be found. Unwilling to give up, I headed to the vinyl section on the same floor and, to my delight, found the Record Store Day limited edition live LP I had missed out on! I let out a silent cheer. It’s these unexpected encounters that make exploring Tower Records so addictive.
Wandering further, I found the store full of engaging features, from a special display celebrating the Oasis reunion to a pop-up store for the cassette release of Tatsuro Yamashita’s classic album *Melodies*. Since much of Yamashita-san’s work isn’t on streaming services, the joy of owning his music on a physical format is exceptional. There was even a gachapon machine dispensing pin badges of his album art, which I couldn’t resist trying. This element of entertainment is a huge part of Tower’s appeal. While you may have to wage a quiet battle with your desires, it’s all part of the fun. I highly recommend experiencing the joy of pulling a personal treasure from this swirling vortex of information and music.
For a more detailed account of my experience at this location, please read this article:
Vinyl & Vibes: My Cassette Tape Treasure Hunt at Tower Records Shibuya
3. Oddtape (Shibuya PARCO): A Universe of Discovery Where Fashion and Culture Intersect
In the heart of bustling Shibuya, the reborn Shibuya PARCO stands out with its modern presence. On its fifth floor lies one of the most striking discoveries of my journey: “Oddtape.” After ascending via escalator past the first floor’s wafting scent of Hermès and the second floor’s avant-garde fashion from Margiela and Junya Watanabe, I found the shop tucked away in a corner of a floor where fashion and culture merge. Beyond its minimalist white facade, a universe of cassette tapes awaited, filling an entire wall.
The moment I stepped inside, I was breathless. The sight of tapes packed tightly yet methodically on wooden shelves, meticulously organized by genre, was akin to an art installation. The depth and breadth of their selection, especially for new releases, was stunning—rivaling, and in some aspects perhaps even surpassing, Waltz and Tower Records. From alternative and indie pop to lo-fi hip-hop, jazz, and even Korean indie bands, the store effortlessly crosses genre boundaries.
But the store’s excellence isn’t just about its inventory. As I was comparing a Nirvana live tape to my phone’s purchase history, a gentle voice asked, “Looking for anything in particular? You can give it a listen if you’d like.” The offer of a ‘listen’ in this digital age was wonderfully warm. That simple act of hospitality made me realize that Oddtape isn’t just a place to sell products; it’s a community space for sharing a love and knowledge of music.
Encouraged, I continued my treasure hunt and was soon rewarded. I found a cassette of global superstar Billie Eilish’s NPR *Tiny Desk Concert*. Then, a handwritten POP note reading “For fans of The Smashing Pumpkins” drew me to the debut album of a Brooklyn indie band called “Bedridden.” The contrast between these two finds—a rare recording from a global star and the debut of an unknown band—is the very essence of what makes a specialty store in Shibuya, the crossroads of culture, so special. Here, you’ll find discoveries born of serendipity and human warmth, something an algorithm could never replicate.
For a more detailed account of my experience at this location, please read this article:
An Analog Oasis in Shibuya: My Journey to Oddtape, a Cassette Tape Store Full of Hidden Treasures
4. HMV record shop Shibuya: A Digger’s Paradise for Hunting Ghosts in a Sea of Used Vinyl
There’s another unmissable sanctuary in any Shibuya music pilgrimage: “HMV record shop Shibuya” on Inokashira Dori. Its entrance is tucked away, almost hidden, but behind that modest door lies a swirling vortex of musical memories. With a stock that feels like 40% new and 60% used, its second-hand inventory is arguably one of the best in Shibuya.
On the day I visited, I was greeted by a special display dedicated to Oasis, reflecting the excitement around their reunion tour. The sight of limited-edition Japanese color vinyl pressings was a thrill for a fan like me. Believing this grand promotion must mean a boost in their used stock, I made a beeline for the indie/alternative section.
The thrill of crate digging lies in the tactile sensation of flipping through jackets, the faint, musty smell of old paper, and that heart-pounding moment of discovery. And then, it happened. I found a 12-inch single of “Little by Little / She is Love.” But the price tag brought me back to reality: ¥16,500. The premium was for the B-side, a legendary cover of The Who’s “My Generation.” Next to it sat an analog copy of *The Masterplan* for over ¥30,000. You might find your holy grail, but that doesn’t mean you can always take it home. This is the reality of record hunting, a scene many diggers know all too well.
Shaking it off, I headed to the cassette corner. The wall-to-wall display at the back of the first floor was impressive, with a strong selection of J-Pop. Since I’d already made my purchases at Oddtape, nothing caught my eye. I checked the second-floor cassette section, specializing in Hip-Hop and Techno, but left empty-handed. Strangely, I wasn’t disappointed. The thrill of finding a rare Oasis record, the moment of reflection at the Nujabes display—the entire experience was the real find. Even when you leave with nothing, the inspiration gained is a priceless reward.
For a more detailed account of my experience at this location, please read this article:
Crate Digging at HMV Record Shop Shibuya: The Hunt for Oasis and Analog Treasures
5. Manhattan Records (Shibuya): The Beating Heart of Hip-Hop’s Street Groove
Venture off Shibuya’s Center Gai into the Udagawa-cho area, the cradle of Japanese street culture. At its heart, for decades, stands “Manhattan Records.” Its iconic red sign is a beacon for DJs, artists, and music lovers like myself. This is more than a record store; you know it the moment you open the door. A smooth bassline, the scent of vinyl and paper, and an air thick with passion—it all combines to create a unique groove.
While the ground floor focuses on new releases and classic apparel like their logo hoodies, my real mission was upstairs. Ascending the steep stairs, the atmosphere grows more reverent. This is a universe of used records, each waiting for its next chapter. And to the right, at the top of the stairs, was the cassette corner.
I was delighted to see the section had expanded since my last visit, a clear sign that this legendary store is embracing the cassette revival. The wooden shelves were packed with new and used tapes, predominantly hip-hop and R&B. A handwritten sign reading “Hip-Hop, R&B, etc…” added a warm touch. Digging through these shelves, spanning from golden-era classics to the latest indie releases, is a blissful experience.
But this sanctuary also taught me a lesson. I spotted the soundtrack for *Shaft* by Isaac Hayes. My hand reached for it, but I hesitated, thinking, “I’ll get it next time.” Minutes after leaving, a wave of regret washed over me. “Why didn’t I buy it?” Music hunting is about seizing the moment, a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. That was my most real, and perhaps most valuable, takeaway. I vowed that next time I’m under that red sign, I won’t let fate slip through my fingers.
For a more detailed account of my experience at this location, please read this article:
A Cassette Tape Journey at the Legendary Manhattan Records: Digging for Hip-Hop Gems in Shibuya
6. Disk Union Ochanomizu Ekimae: Unearthing Rock’s Deeper Cuts in an Academic Town
Leaving the hustle of Shibuya, we head to Ochanomizu, a neighborhood of students and bookstores. The Disk Union here has a different vibe. I visited the “Ochanomizu Ekimae” branch, conveniently located right outside the Tokyo Metro station. Though it’s an all-genre store, its proximity to the book district of Jinbocho gives it an academic air, sparking the hope of finding music that tickles the intellectual curiosity.
My ritual is to check the new releases first, as future rarities are most affordable upon release. On this day, I found a limited-edition 7-inch paper sleeve version of Oasis’s *Time Flies…* compilation, exclusive to Japan. Buoyed by this lucky start, I delved into the labyrinth of used CDs. It was there that I rediscovered the true essence of Disk Union.
As I scanned the Oasis section, I came across a series of unfamiliar covers. Of course: bootlegs. The thrill of finding these live recordings, which often possess a raw energy surpassing official releases, is a unique pleasure of Disk Union. I had foolishly forgotten. My eyes locked onto a simple black cover with ‘JILY’ in white—a high-quality remaster of one of the most legendary Oasis bootlegs. Its recording location, Cardiff, was a serendipitous link to the band’s fictional reunion tour. It felt like fate. I snatched it up without a second thought.
I also found a complete 3-disc version of the Maine Road shows, and my excitement peaked. While I struck out in the vinyl section, it didn’t matter. The thrill of peering into the abyss of bootlegs, a step beyond official releases, is a profound musical experience that Disk Union offers. Ogling a Knebworth-era track jacket with a price tag over ¥30,000 is also part of the human drama that makes this place so compelling.
For a more detailed account of my experience at this location, please read this article:
Hunting for Oasis Rarities at Disk Union Ochanomizu: A Fateful Encounter with the Legendary ‘JILY’ Bootleg
7. disk Union Jazz TOKYO: The Soul of Jazz in a Specialist’s Sanctuary
There is another sanctuary in Ochanomizu that must be visited. It is a place I firmly believe is indispensable for anyone searching for Tokyo jazz records: “disk Union Jazz TOKYO.” Located right near Meiji University’s Liberty Tower, its striking black and red logo on a white building exudes the aura of a specialist. Posters of Kamasi Washington and Kady Z. George on the stairwell welcome you; the world of jazz begins before you even open the door.
There is one cardinal rule for navigating this store: head straight to the New Arrivals corner. I can state with certainty that your success for the day hinges on your strategy here. Seasoned regulars always start here, and for good reason: the sheer volume is astounding. On my visit, there were four full rows of LPs and six overflowing boxes. This is a sight I’ve rarely encountered even in London’s record shops. This remarkable turnover speaks volumes about the quality of vinyl brought in by sellers. It’s a place where lovingly listened-to records are passed on to the next appreciative ear. Occasionally, an entire collection from a single artist gets released at once, presenting a golden opportunity.
After scanning the new arrivals, let your gaze drift to the walls. There, you’ll be met with an impressive array of original pressings of classic jazz albums. The store also boasts one of the best CD selections in Tokyo, and the in-store “Soul Blues Kan” annex is a must-see, featuring a meticulously curated selection. I didn’t find my “one” on this particular day, but that’s part of the charm of record hunting. The best finds are always unpredictable. The joy of immersing yourself in this vast sea of jazz and unearthing a personal gem is an experience second to none.
For a more detailed account of my experience at this location, please read this article:
Tokyo’s Jazz Heartbeat: A Deep Dive into disk Union Jazz TOKYO
A Summary of Tokyo’s Cassette Tape & Record Shops
Here is a summary of the seven unique sanctuaries I visited on my journey. Use it as a guide to choose the destination for your next adventure, based on your own tastes.
| Name | Official Link | Address | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| waltz | Official Site | 4-15-5 Nakameguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo | A specialty cassette tape store in a quiet Nakameguro neighborhood. Known for its owner’s refined selection and a minimal, serene atmosphere. |
| Tower Records Shibuya | Official Site | 1-22-14 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo | A Shibuya landmark and a “music library” with an overwhelming volume. One of Tokyo’s largest cassette tape selections, covering everything from major labels to indie artists. |
| Oddtape | Official Site | Shibuya PARCO 5F, 15-1 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo | Located in Shibuya PARCO, this specialty shop is strong on new releases. Features an edgy selection of indie and alternative music, with friendly service. |
| HMV record shop Shibuya | Official Site | Noah Shibuya 1F/2F, 36-2 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo | A record shop with an extensive collection of used vinyl. Particularly strong in Western rock and indie genres, it’s a perfect place to enjoy the thrill of crate digging. |
| Manhattan Records | Official Site | Kida Bldg., 10-1 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo | A legendary institution in Japan’s hip-hop and R&B scene. Known for its specialized selection and a unique groove rooted in street culture. |
| Disk Union Ochanomizu Ekimae | Official Site | Shin-Ochanomizu Bldg. 2F, 4-3 Kanda Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo | An all-genre store with an academic vibe. A great place to find not only official releases but also more obscure items like bootlegs. |
| disk Union Jazz TOKYO | Official Site | New Surugadai Bldg. 2F, 2-1-45 Kanda Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo | The pinnacle of jazz specialty stores. Its “New Arrivals” section, with its incredible volume, is a must-see. Arguably the best selection in Tokyo and a must-visit for any jazz fan. |
Conclusion: Weaving Our Own Soundtrack on Magnetic Tape
This journey connected the vast city of Tokyo with the single thread of a cassette tape. From the serene space in Nakameguro, through the chaotic cultural crossroads of Shibuya, to the intellectual labyrinth of Ochanomizu. Each shop, while having a completely different face, showed me a single, shared value: the preciousness of human-led curation and unpredictable serendipity.
The passion-filled selections of owners and buyers, the handwritten notes accompanying the products, and the chance encounters that lead you from “if you like this, you might like this”—these are profoundly human experiences that even the most optimized digital algorithms can never replace. The quest for a cassette tape is not merely an act of collecting old music media. It is a creative process of editing your own story from a vast archive of swirling musical memories.
A single cassette tape holds not just music, but the weather of the day, the scent of the shop, a conversation with the staff, and the exhilaration of the moment of discovery. Every time you press play, those memories return. It’s my own personal soundtrack. I hope that you, with this guide in hand, will wander out into the city next weekend and find that one special tape for yourself. So, why not set out on a journey to find your own soundtrack? I promise, an unforgettable discovery awaits.